4-5 July 2024 (Los Banos, Laguna)—The Seed Health and Logistics Unit (SHU) and the Breeding Operations Unit - Cross Cutting Operations (CCO), in partnership with HR - Learning and Development (HRL&D), conducted two transformative training sessions on the Sampling of Seedlots and Consignments for Seed Health Testing. This initiative aimed to empower Research Technicians (RTs) by enhancing their proficiency in performing seed sampling according to the established protocols of SHU and CCO.
Wednesday, November 13, 2024
Tuesday, November 12, 2024
JAIF and IRRI collaborate to transform practices on food safety and processing for Southeast Asian representatives
7-17 October 2024 (Los Baños, Laguna)—Five (5) government technical staff from Cambodia, Laos, Vietnam, and Myanmar united for a 10-day training program at the University of the Philippines Los Baños. Hosted by the Institute of Food Science and Technology, this program offered participants a valuable opportunity to advance their knowledge of food safety, sensory evaluation, and innovative food processing techniques.
Advancing Resilience: The 2024 IRRI-NARES Late Maturity Salinity Trials Focus on Developing Salt-Tolerant Rice for Bangladesh
IRRI and NARES report promising breakthroughs in salinity-tolerant rice, aiming to enhance resilience for Bangladesh’s farmers.
The International Rice Research Institute (IRRI) and the National Agricultural Research and Extension Systems (NARES) are making significant strides in breeding salt-tolerant rice varieties essential for Bangladesh’s saline-prone agricultural regions. These developments come in response to increasing soil salinity, which affects nearly 30% of Bangladesh’s coastal areas and poses serious challenges for rice cultivation—a vital crop for the nation’s food security and economic stability. Through the 2024 IRRI-NARES Late Maturity Salinity Trials, scientists are developing resilient, high-yielding rice genotypes to better withstand harsh environmental conditions.
Monday, November 11, 2024
Developing Short-Duration Cold-Tolerant Rice Varieties Could Boost Food Security in Bangladesh’s Haor Region
The workshop emphasized continued efforts in developing cold-tolerant, high-yield rice varieties to enhance food security and resilience in Haor areas.
Gazipur, Bangladesh (5 November 2024) – The International Rice Research Institute (IRRI), the Bangladesh Rice Research Institute (BRRI), and the Krishi Gobeshona Foundation (KGF) came together to review and plan on advancing cold-tolerant, short-duration rice varieties for the Haor region to enhance resilience to cold stress and improve food security in the region. This collaboration aims to tackle climate-related challenges in rice production by developing varieties that can thrive under the Haor region’s climatic conditions.
Thursday, November 7, 2024
AFACI-reviewed project on target and two types of training on EBS and Bioflow for data analysis success in Vietnam
The 2024 AFACI (Asian Food and Agriculture Cooperation Initiative) assessed the progress of the project, "Stress-tolerant, high-yielding rice (SHR) varieties suitable for AFACI member countries and Germplasm Utilization for Value Added (GUVA)" during their Project Evaluation Workshop from August 27 to 28, 2024. The reviewed initiative aims to develop rice varieties resilient to biotic and abiotic stresses like drought, salinity, and flooding while enhancing yield potential.
Tuesday, November 5, 2024
IRRI, CIAT assess the cost-effectiveness of digital climate advisory services in Myanmar through the AMD Initiative
Sunday, October 27, 2024
IRRI and TaiwanICDF facilitate training of trainers on sustainable and low-carbon rice straw management
Can Tho, Vietnam (October 9-11, 2024) – The International Rice Research Institute (IRRI) Vietnam Office held a Training of Trainers (TOTs) workshop in Can Tho, Vietnam. The workshop focused on Sustainable and Low-Carbon Rice Production, emphasizing Rice Straw Management. This event was part of the Capacity Building for Sustainable and Low-Carbon Rice Innovations in Southeast Asia (CABIN) project, supported by the Taiwan International Cooperation and Development Fund (TaiwanICDF).
Monday, October 21, 2024
Biofortified Rice Expansion, Branding, and Market Linkage in Bangladesh
Sharif Ahmed, Abdullah Miajy, Alanuzzaman Kurishi, Prakashan Chellattan Veettil
The CGIAR Regional Integrated Initiative Transforming Agrifood Systems in South Asia (TAFSSA) recently organized a regional workshop focused on expanding, branding, and creating market linkages for biofortified rice in Bangladesh. The workshop occurred on September 26, 2024, at the OFRD conference room, BARI, Rangpur. Approximately 45 individuals from various sectors, including government organizations such as the Bangladesh Rice Research Institute (BRRI), Bangladesh Institute for Nuclear Agriculture (BINA), the Department of Agricultural Extension (DAE), the Department of Agricultural Marketing (DAM), and Bangladesh Agriculture Development Corporation (BADC) participated in the event. Additionally, private sectors, including auto rice mills, supermarkets, traders, and seed companies, as well as cooperatives and lead farmers specializing in biofortified rice, played a vital role in the workshop.
Friday, October 18, 2024
IRRI and TaiwanICDF launches project on sustainable and low-carbon rice straw management in Southeast Asia
Can Tho City, Vietnam (October 9th, 2024)—The International Rice Research Institute (IRRI) Vietnam Office launched a new project called Capacity Building for Sustainable and Low-Carbon Rice Innovations in Southeast Asia (CABIN). The CABIN project, supported by the Taiwan International Cooperation and Development Fund (TaiwanICDF) and implemented by IRRI, aims to promote sustainable rice straw management in Vietnam, Cambodia, Laos, Indonesia, and the Philippines from 2024 to 2028.
Thursday, October 17, 2024
SIRS Department Advances Research with GIS and Data Science Training Workshops
Dehner de Leon
The IRRI Sustainable Impact through Rice-Based Systems (SIRS) Department recently concluded its back-to-back training sessions for staff on using Quantum Geographic Information System (QGIS) and R programming. Organized by the Data Enablement and Stewardship for Knowledge Exchange (DESK) committee, the learning activities were designed with interactive segments and enlisted more than 30 participants.
Webinar Highlights Innovations for Climate-Resilient Agriculture in Asian Mega Deltas
Dhaka, Bangladesh, 10 September 2024. To combat the impacts of climate change on agri-based food systems of the Deltaic regions of Bangladesh and India, a webinar titled “Asian Mega Deltas Initiatives for Resilient and Adaptive Agri-Food Systems” was organized by South Asia Regional Resilience Hub. It is a part of the Gobeshona Program at the International Center for Climate Change and Development (ICCCAD). The project is part of the CGIAR’s initiative on the Asian Mega Delta and is being led by IRRI in Bangladesh. The discussions focused on how advanced technology, nature-based solutions, and community-led innovations are transforming agriculture by improving climate resilience and livelihoods in the Asian Mega Deltas, focusing on Bangladesh and India as a part of the Ganges Delta.
Wednesday, October 16, 2024
Farmer’s Perception Meeting and Field Visit on Aman DSR Highlight Benefits for Sustainable Crop Intensification
by Sharif Ahmed, Abdullah Miajy, and Humnath Bhandari
DSR technology can potentially reduce irrigation and labor needs while boosting productivity for rice farmers.
On September 25, 2024, IRRI, in collaboration with the Bangladesh Rice Research Institute (BRRI) and the Department of Agriculture Extension (DAE), organized a field day and farmers' perception meeting on mechanized dry-seeded Aman rice (DSR) in Kishorgonj, Nilphamari, Bangladesh. The event showcased the benefits of DSR, an innovative rice crop establishment method that reduces production costs by saving labor and water and lowering methane emissions. Local farmers witnessed firsthand the results of a 20-acre DSR demonstration under the SI-MFS and ScaleDirect projects, focusing on using the short-duration rice variety BRRI dhan75.
Monday, October 14, 2024
The first international workshop on rice false smut puts research spotlight on an escalating plant disease
The International Rice Research Institute (IRRI) welcomed key experts in plant pathology to the inaugural International Rice False Smut Consortium workshop, supported by the John Templeton Foundation, to address urgent issues affecting rice production caused by Rice False Smut disease. During this event, IRRI formally launched the International Rice False Smut Consortium, where 22 international organizations pledged their support by becoming members.
Tuesday, October 8, 2024
RiceEco Project delivers tangible benefits for farmers and the environment
The Rice Straw-Based Circular Economy for Improved Biodiversity and Sustainability (RiceEco) Project achieved all its mid-term indicators, demonstrating its effectiveness in driving positive change in the agricultural sector through research, innovative technologies, and building farmers' capacity. These achievements have far-reaching implications for the agriculture sector and the environment.
Thursday, October 3, 2024
IRRI strengthens its commitment of poverty alleviation of smallholder farmers in flood-affected areas of eastern Bangladesh
Sharif Ahmed, Abdullah Miajy, and Humnath Bhandari
The recent severe flooding in Bangladesh has significantly affected the country’s rice production, particularly Aus and Aman rice crops. The floods destroyed the near-mature Aus rice, leaving farmers with no prospects for harvest. However, Aman rice had just been transplanted but was at risk, heightening concerns among farmers about the availability of seeds and seedlings for replanting. Despite the devastation, there is still a narrow window for replanting short-duration Aman rice varieties following the receding floodwaters.
Wednesday, October 2, 2024
IRRI and CABI organize five-day workshop on “Mass Production and Application of Biological Control Agents and Biopesticides” in Odisha
To promote the use of biocontrol agents and biopesticides and mainstream Integrated Pest Management in the rice-based ecosystem in Odisha, the International Rice Research Institute (IRRI) partnered with CAB International (CABI) and Odisha University of Agriculture and Technology (OUAT) to organize a workshop and field demonstration on “Mass Production and Application of Biological Control Agents and Biopesticides” from 23rd -27th September. Biocontrol agents help prevent pest resistance, support sustainable agriculture, and are essential for organic farming. Additionally, they can reduce the long-term costs on insect-pest management.
This activity is under the World Bank-aided project “Odisha Integrated Irrigation Project for Climate Resilient Agriculture” and is managed by the Department of Water Resources and Department of Agriculture and Farmers’ Welfare, Government of Odisha. The project aims to intensify and diversify agricultural production and enhance climate resilience in selected districts of Odisha This is planned to be achieved by a) adopting high yielding climate-ready varieties of different crops in tank command and influence areas, b) promoting rice varieties and cropping systems for tank command and influence areas to manage rice fallows c) optimizing nutrient management in tank command areas through an integrated plant nutrient supply system, and d) strengthening the entrepreneurship capacity of farmer organizations for seed and service provision development.
The workshop focused on the hands-on training of participants on the basic principles to produce biocontrol agents that are used as an augmentative approach to combat common pests and diseases with improved management practices in rice and pulses.
The training was conducted in the entomology and plant pathology department of OUAT. The participants were trained on the production of Trichogramma, the production of Corcyra eggs and trichocards, field release of Trichogramma, field evaluation technique, an overview of predatory insects in rice, and the production and field application of Trichoderma, Pseudomonas and Beauveria bassiana.
The inaugural session was presided by the OUAT dean Prof. H.K. Patro, who expressed his enthusiasm in the IRRI, CABI and OUAT collaboration. He expressed his interest in having similar collaborative programs in the future. The participants included five PhD students from OUAT who had the opportunity to learn production technologies from experts.
IRRI Soil Scientist, Dr. Anthony Fulford, emphasized the importance to include both organic and inorganic ways of crop management in the current scenarios of climate change to contribute to sustainable agriculture.
The first day of the workshop featured a presentation by Dr. Malvika Choudhary from CABI, who provided an overview of the mass production training. Prof. M.K. Mishra from OUAT highlighted the use of biopesticides, which aligns with the growing need to combat pesticide resistance, and has become a significant challenge in agriculture. Dr. A. Sasmal from OUAT provided an overview of the importance of biocontrol agents and shared the success stories on the basis of the use of biocontrol agents and their benefits.
The training sessions were conducted jointly by Dr. Swapan Ghosh and Dr. Malvika Choudhary from CABI and professors from OUAT. Participants were encouraged to follow the step-by-step production methods to produce the biocontrol agents. These trained participants will act as master trainers and continue to train participants at the local level, creating awareness and building the skills of people at the ground level in the production and use of biocontrol agents.
A highlight of the event was the release of a training manual co-developed by CABI, OUAT and IRRI, which will guide the participants in scaling the technology at ground level.
Dr. Mukund Variar, IRRI State Coordinator for Odisha, expressed appreciation for CABI in promoting biocontrol agents and emphasized that an integrated approach is the need of the hour. Dr. Mukund stressed that the project aims to raise awareness, and build capacity of the stakeholders on Integrated Nutrient and Pest Management and IRRI will continue to put effort into building a sustainable and climate-resilient ecosystem in Odisha.
The workshop brought together 40 participants, including representatives of the Department of Agriculture and Farmers’ Welfare, Farmer Producer Companies, NGOs, and students and professors from OUAT and IRRI staff.
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Tuesday, October 1, 2024
Philippine partners level up skills in regional training for PPTV establishment on Direct-Seeded Rice (DSR)
Regional and provincial researchers from the Philippines’ Region 3 scaled up their knowledge and skills in Direct Seeded Rice, particularly in digital data collection and best practices in Participatory Performance Testing and Validation (PPTV), through a workshop facilitated by Dr. Mary Jean Du, Breeding Lead for IRRI’s Rice Breeding Innovations Department-Southeast Asia Region.
Wednesday, September 18, 2024
IRRI participates in public hearing in South Kalimantan and introduces Rice Crop Manager Layanan Konsultasi Padi
(BANJAR BARU, Indonesia, 12 September 2024) The International Rice Research Institute (IRRI) participated in the public hearing held by Balai Penerapan Standar Instrumen Pertanian (BPSIP) South Kalimantan on September 12, 2024, at the BPSIP South Kalimantan office. Representatives from local government institutions, partners, and farmer groups attended the event, which was organized to gather insights from key stakeholders on agricultural services provided by BPSIP South Kalimantan.
Thursday, September 12, 2024
RBI Field Tour highlights BOU's efforts to improve farm efficiency
Did you know annual farm equipment repair and maintenance costs are more expensive than buying new ones? This is why the IRRI Breeding Operations Unit, led by Engr. Princess Lilia Dela Cruz, has taken important steps to review existing farm equipment and resource utilization to match the research needs and improve the overall resource management efficiency.
Tuesday, September 10, 2024
IRRI-Odisha project helps farmers and other stakeholders get acquainted with mechanized direct-seeded rice
Progressive men and women farmers, SPs, and representatives from non-government organizations from Odisha, Andhra Pradesh, Chhattisgarh, and Telangana participated in a hands-on demonstration of mechanized direct-seeded rice. The objective was to allow stakeholders to observe and experience advanced agricultural practices.
Tuesday, September 3, 2024
Sowing Unity: Cultivating First Joint Breeding Efforts In India
Joint discussion and collaborations to initiate joint crossing block design activities at ANGRAU breeders in RARS, Maruteru, and ARS, Bapatla, Andhra Pradesh. |
Influential mega varieties, mainly SWARNA and BPT 5204, have long dominated the Indian rice sector, as the main staying varieties of Indian rice production since the 1980s. These cultivars provide a reliable and high-yielding option for farmers nationwide. With a goal to replace these market-demanded mega rice varieties with more upgraded rice (climate-resilient, more productive, and late-duration maturity), the International Rice Research Institute (IRRI) collaborated with the Acharya N.G. Ranga Agricultural University (ANGRAU) on a transformative journey to start joint breeding efforts. The partnership aimed to have a shared vision of replacing these established mega varieties with new, high-yielding, and improved genotypes.
Wednesday, August 28, 2024
Mechanized composting technology to help Vietnamese farmers reduce fertilizer costs and improve soil health
Nam Dinh, Vietnam, August 20, 2024 - To promote the use of organic fertilizer and the mainstreaming of rice straw-based circular economy model, the International Rice Research Institute (IRRI) partnered with the Department of Crop Production and Plant Protection of Nam Dinh province to organize a training workshop and field demonstration on mechanized rice straw-based composting.
UPLB MSc graduate won best paper in an international conference
Ms. Patricia Izabelle M. Lopez won the Best Paper Award-Upstream Category at the joint Crop Science Society of the Philippines and Society for the Advancement of Breeding Research in Asia and Oceania (CSSP-SABRAO) International Conference for Crop Science and Breeding.
Wednesday, August 14, 2024
IRRI researchers collaborate with Filipino farmers to make fertilizer management app more user-friendly
Tanay, Rizal - July 29, 2024—Farmers and agriculture extension workers from Rizal Province collaborated with International Rice Research Institute (IRRI) researchers to enhance agricultural practices and technology adoption among local farmers.
Friday, August 9, 2024
ScaleDirect Project conducts baseline study on rice-based production systems in India
ScaleDirect Team initiates a robust baseline study in India to later inform measurement of the project's impact on improving environmental and socio-economic sustainability of rice production in the region.
July 26, 2024, India - Gearing up to measure the impact of its climate-smart technologies in rice-based food systems, the Rice Breeding Innovation of the International Rice Research Institute (IRRI), in partnership with Bayer Crop Science, launched a baseline survey last July 8 to support its Climate Smart Rice Technology Project.
Tuesday, August 6, 2024
TechnoServe launches Millers for Nutrition Initiative in Kenya to combat widespread micronutrient deficiencies
In a significant move to address widespread hidden hunger in Kenya, the Market Intelligence Initiative was invited to partake in the launch of the Millers for Nutrition Initiative in Kenya. Millers for Nutrition is a global initiative composed of 8 countries that aim to provide access to safe, nutritious food for all citizens.
Kenya, like many sub-Saharan African countries, faces a critical challenge with micronutrient deficiencies, often referred to as “hidden hunger.” UNICEF, the Kenyan demographic health survey, and WHO estimate that about 40% of women in their reproductive age (15-49 years) suffer from iron deficiency. Furthermore, around 26% of children under the age of five years are affected by iron deficiency anemia. In addition, about 30% of women and men are zinc deficient, and an additional 51% of children under the age of five suffer from zinc deficiency. Iron and zinc deficiencies result in stunted growth, wasting, and cognitive impairments. Vitamin A deficiency affects about 16% of women and men and 33% of children under 5 years.
Millers have been identified as a key group to help ease the burden of hidden hunger through fortification strategies of major staple crops such as maize, wheat, and edible oils. These consumer products are currently fortified in Kenya, with rice gaining greater attention through the Ministry of Health and the Ministry of Investments, Trade, and Industry, which highlighted the importance of safe, nutritious food through the improvement of fortification technology and standards. The rice fortification strategy for Kenya will be launched shortly.
Cereal fortification has been shown to be effective in addressing malnutrition, but the presenters highlighted that this is not always easy to achieve. Food safety issues like aflatoxin contamination often result in poor products. The Kenya Millers Fortification Index (KMFI), an assessment tool developed to monitor and evaluate the progress and effectiveness of fortification programs in Kenya, was implemented through collaborative efforts involving the Kenyan government, the Kenya Bureau of Standards (KEBS), milling companies, and non-governmental organizations.
Wednesday, July 24, 2024
Crop cafeterias facilitate the widespread dissemination and adoption of superior rice varieties across Bangladesh
The International Rice Research Institute (IRRI) in Bangladesh and the Bangladesh Agricultural Development Corporation (BADC) organized a crop cafeteria on 11 May 2024 at the BADC Seed Multiplication Farm in Tangail.
DA delegation visits Vietnam to enhance Philippine rice production
A delegation from the Philippines' Department of Agriculture visited Vietnam to learn about their successful sustainable rice production program. The Philippines hopes to adopt similar practices to improve yields and farmer profits and reduce greenhouse gas emissions.
In a recent visit to Vietnam, DA Secretary and IRRI Board of Trustees Ex-Officio Member Francisco Tiu Laurel, Jr. engaged in a series of knowledge exchange events to learn about sustainable rice production. During his visit, Vietnam's experience with the "Sustainable Development of One Million Hectares of High Quality and Low-Emission Rice Associated with Green Growth in the Mekong River Delta By 2030" program was particularly highlighted.
Tuesday, July 23, 2024
IRRI scholar awarded best thesis for weed science
Kim Diane Nocito, an Affiliate BS Scholar in IRRI, recently won the Best Undergraduate Thesis for Weed Science given by the Weed Science Society of the Philippines during the 56th Pest Management Council of the Philippines Scientific Conference held last June in Boracay, Aklan.
Thursday, July 11, 2024
Breeders identify promising lines for developing future rice varieties for South Asia
- More than 100 promising lines were selected by IRRI and India NARES partners for the future development of improved rice varieties.
- Coordinated efforts between institutions significantly enhanced rice research and development in the region.
- IRRI and ICAR-IIRR coordination is crucial in providing technical support to NARES partners for capacity building.
IRRI South Asia Hub, Hyderabad, India (25 May 2024)— More than 30 scientists from the International Rice Research Institute (IRRI )South Asia Hub and the Indian Council of Agricultural Research-Indian Institute of Rice Research (ICAR-IIRR) participated in a rigorous selection process of breeding lines for developing superior rice varieties.
Monday, July 1, 2024
Odisha and IRRI promote sustainable rice production using dhaincha and organic fertilizer
- IRRI promotes enhanced crop and soil productivity through the balanced use of chemical and organic fertilizers.
- IRRI and the Odisha Department of Agriculture and Farmers’ Empowerment trained department-selected staff on dhaincha seed production and green manuring.
- The staff will share the benefits of dhaincha and organic fertilizer in rice-based cropping systems with farmers.
The Odisha Department of Agriculture and Farmers’ Empowerment (DA&FE) promotes cultivating dhaincha and organic fertilizer to improve farmers' productivity and ensure the sustainability of the state’s agriculture sector.
IRRI and BSIP Central Java advance rice farming through optimized nutrient and water management
- IRRI is supporting Indonesian efforts to broaden knowledge and usage of RCM
- The RCM web app helps rice farmers use the right amount of fertilizer and water
- This can contribute to better productivity and reduced GHG emissions
(UNGARAN - BOYOLALI, Indonesia, 25 - 27 June) - IRRI and its key partner organization, BSIP (Indonesian Institute for Agricultural Instrument Standard Implementation) Central Java, are committed to contributing to the Indonesian government's goals for rural prosperity, food security, environmental sustainability, and climate mitigation and adaptation. As part of this commitment, IRRI and BSIP are working together on the Rice Crop Manager (RCM) Indonesia project to broaden its dissemination, enhance its algorithm, and showcase its results through field trials.
Thursday, June 20, 2024
Mekong Delta seeks sustainable future for rice industry with circular economy workshop
- Global experts addressed the challenges of rice production in the Mekong River Delta.
- The primary issue is the vast amount of straw rice farming produces.
- Experts explored a circular economy approach involving innovative uses for rice straw and reducing environmental impact.
Can Tho City, Vietnam (7 June 2024)—Experts from international organizations and the public and private sectors discussed developing a circular economy based on rice production and processing to ensure the sustainability of the rice industry in the Mekong River Delta (MRD).
Tuesday, June 4, 2024
IRRI Diary: A vibrant spring wrap-up from Vietnam
Entry by Amber Sharick (IRRI Vietnam)
The IRRI Vietnam team has had an exciting few weeks supporting evidence-based decision-making through stakeholder engagement and policy dialogue.
Friday, May 31, 2024
Sea6 Energy visits IRRI HQ for possible BIC partnership
A delegation from Sea6 Energy visited the International Rice Research Institute (IRRI) Headquarters in Laguna, Philippines to explore possible research collaboration and membership through IRRI’s Bio-Innovation Center (BIC) program.
Monday, May 27, 2024
IRRI scientists provide CLRRI researchers with advanced training on experimental designs and data analysis
CUU LONG DELTA RICE RESEARCH INSTITUTE (CLRRI), 15 April 2024—In response to the need for capacity-building efforts, particularly in data analysis using modern tools and breeding approaches, researchers from CLRRI underwent a workshop on “Experimental designs and modern statistical data analysis”. It was conducted by IRRI scientists, as part of the project "Securing the Food Systems of Asian Mega-Deltas through Identification of Salinity Tolerant Genotypes in Vietnam".
Friday, May 24, 2024
IRRI’s commitment to science and partnerships
IRRI works closely with national research partners in the rice value chain to understand their priorities and needs. Using an extensive portfolio of rice breeding innovations coupled with improved agronomic practices and advice, IRRI addresses the constraints they face.
Conventional rice breeding makes up the bulk of IRRI’s rice breeding research. This approach takes advantage of existing genetic variation to introduce desirable traits into cultivated crop varieties.
IRRI also uses new breeding approaches to address producing food. New approaches produce crops that help supply the food requirements for an ever-increasing population, within a context of uncertainty from climate change, decreasing natural resource pools, and malnutrition.
Thursday, May 23, 2024
Biometrical genetics workflow app demonstration at IRRI Headquarters
The Breeding Analytics and Data Management team within IRRI’s Rice Breeding Innovations department demonstrated firsthand their biometrical genetics workflow application (bioflow) at IRRI Headquarters.
Monday, May 20, 2024
IRRI Seed Health and Logistics Unit leads quality management and cost recovery systems implementation across the CGIAR CoP at the 7th CGIAR GHU Workshop
CIAT, COLOMBIA, 15 April 2024 — Germplasm/Seed health units staff members from various CGIAR centers, including the International Rice Research Institute (IRRI), meet once again for the 7th International Workshop of the CGIAR Germplasm Health Units, held from 15-19 April at the International Center for Tropical Agriculture (CIAT) Headquarters in Palmira, Colombia.
Monde Nissin rep visits IRRI to explore opportunities for rice-based consumer products
The adviser to the Chief Executive Officer of the Monde Nissin Corporation recently visited IRRI Headquarters to meet with scientists and discuss innovative uses of rice for their company’s food products.
Tuesday, May 14, 2024
In memory of Dr. Uma Shankar Singh
IRRI mourns the passing of its esteemed former and founding South Asia Regional Centre director Dr. Uma Shankar Singh, on May 9, 2024.
Thursday, May 9, 2024
USDA, MARD, and IRRI advance 4R nutrient management for enhancing fertilizer productivity and sustainability in Vietnam
Can Tho City, Vietnam (April 15-17, 2024) - The Plant Protection Department (PPD), in partnership with the International Rice Research Institute (IRRI), organized a Training of Trainers event focusing on nutrient management and strategies to boost fertilizer efficiency while mitigating carbon footprint. Under the Fertilize Right (FerRight) Project, the training aimed to impart essential knowledge on the 4Rs approach and the introduction of tailored nutrient management practices alongside innovative fertilizer technologies.
IRRI and PJTSAU hold training on advanced breeding techniques for regional partners in India to accelerate crop improvement programs
HYDERABAD, INDIA (27 February 2024) The International Rice Research Institute (IRRI) South Asia Hub and Professor Jayashankar Telangana State Agricultural University (PJTSAU) organized the training Haplotype Analysis and its Application in Breeding for National Agricultural Research and Extension Systems (NARES) in India on 27-28 February in Hyderabad.
Wednesday, May 8, 2024
One year on, IRRI and Shell evaluate progress of flagship project to reduce GHG emissions in rice cultivation
REMET-Rice is a climate change mitigation research collaboration by IRRI and Shell Nature-Based Solutions that aims to build the next generation of rice crop models and datasets toward low-emission solutions for Asian rice systems.
LOS BAÑOS, Philippines (23 April 2024) ~ A wealth of data gathered from multiple experiments and studies were shared and discussed during the first-year progress report and meeting of the Reducing Methane Emissions from Rice (REMET-Rice) Project, a flagship collaboration between the International Rice Research Institute (IRRI) and Shell Nature-Based Solutions.
Tuesday, May 7, 2024
IRRI wins Best Exhibit at KALRO Seeds Expo, showcasing GloMIP, improved technologies, and high-yielding rice varieties
To support the Kenyan government and KALRO’s efforts to improve rice production in the country by increasing farmers’ access to improved rice varieties, access to quality seeds, and advanced farming technologies, IRRI showcases its work under the AGGRi, SeedEqual, Market Intelligence, and ScaleDirect Initiatives at the Kilimo Biashara Expo where they won Best Exhibit.
Friday, May 3, 2024
USDA, MARD, and IRRI launch Fertilize Right Project to optimize fertilizer use of Vietnamese farmers
The Fertilize Right project is a 4-year, USD 4.4M project that will develop and promote efficient and sustainable uses of fertilizer based on the 4Rs of nutrient management (right source, right rate, right time, right place). The project is a joint collaboration between USDA and MARD, with IRRI as implementing partner, and its activities will include technology development, capacity building, and monitoring and evaluation across 6 pilot provinces.
17 April 2024, HANOI, Vietnam ~ The United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) and the Vietnam Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development (MARD) recently launched the Fertilize Right Project, a USD 4.4 million project that aims to improve fertilizer use, boost farmer incomes, and reduce greenhouse gas emissions in rice cultivation.
Monday, April 22, 2024
Faster breeding and addressing climate risks prioritized during the South Asia Advancement meetings
By Maria Rowena M. Baltazar
INDIAN INSTITUTE of RICE RESEARCH, Hyderabad (02 April 2024) – The South Asia Advancement meetings, RBI’s annual initiative where scientists come together and select rice lines to be used for recycling as parents or for product development, released one rice line and six others for AICRPR (All India Coordinated Research Project on Rice) testing and amplification in 2024 wet season, respectively, with several more undergoing continuous deliberations for release before the end of April. The advancement of these rice lines will ensure rice production increases in the region at a shorter period tolerant of climate changes.